As you know, winter is the worst season for your skin barrier, especially if you have dry skin. Remember, cold air can decrease the moisture of your barrier. Plus, the heating system in your home or office can quickly evaporate water. As a result, your skin becomes dry, itchy, cracked, and inflamed. The good news is that you can protect your barrier against the harsh cold air by making a few changes in your routine. So, here are some ways to step up your skincare game this winter.
1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser
During hot weather, you can use foaming cleansers because they can help get rid of sweat, oil, and dirt. However, these benefits are not recommended during the winter season. Remember, your barrier may be irritated when too much oil is removed. As a solution, you can switch to a gentler or hydrating facial cleanser. This product can help wash away dirt and dead skin cells without irritating and drying your skin and can therefore protect your barrier.
2. Choose Hydrating Skincare Ingredients
As mentioned, cold air can steal moisture from your barrier. As such, one of the best ways to step up your skincare game this winter is to pick an excellent moisturizer.
When buying a moisturizer, experts recommend checking for hydrating ingredients. One, in particular, is hyaluronic acid, a superstar when it comes to hydration. Aside from that, peptides and ceramides can also help restore and strengthen your barrier, allowing it to retain more moisture. Other hydrating ingredients are shea butter, jojoba oil, and squalene.
3. Take Cooler Showers
When the temperature is cold, most of you are tempted to take hot showers. Unfortunately, a hot shower can damage your skin, especially during winter. The reason is that hot water can strip your barrier’s natural oils, making it dry.
A solution is to take a cooler or lukewarm shower for a short duration. As much as possible, you should avoid a temperature that causes redness. Of course, you should also apply a moisturizer to moist or damp skin. Also, don’t forget to apply sunscreen when you’re going outdoors to protect your barrier.
4. Make Time for a Facial Mask
The last on this list of ways to step up your skincare game this winter is to pamper your skin through a facial sheet mask. These masks contain hydrating ingredients that will nourish and moisturize your skin. Plus, a facial mask is quite relaxing. You can lie back on your bed or couch while allowing your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients of the mask. Your barrier will feel smooth and look rejuvenated after 15 to 20 minutes of relaxation.
